Why Make This Recipe
One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful meal that combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the sweet and smoky flavors of barbecue chicken. It’s easy to make and requires just one pot, which means less cleanup after dinner! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is also family-friendly and will please both kids and adults alike.
How to Make One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine the macaroni, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded chicken.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the macaroni is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
How to Serve One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve the One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot from the pot. You can dish it out into bowls and sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-5 days. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if it seems dry.
Tips to Make One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- For extra flavor, try using smoked BBQ sauce.
- Feel free to add some veggies like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Make sure to stir regularly while cooking, to prevent sticking and to ensure it cooks evenly.
Variation
You can customize this dish by using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack. Additionally, for a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or use spicy BBQ sauce.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked chicken?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Just ensure it cooks fully while simmering in the pot, which may take a little longer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Just cook it, store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free.
One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce Use smoked BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can be substituted with mozzarella or pepper jack.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, combine the macaroni, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded chicken.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the macaroni is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.